1988 Saab 9000 vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Saab 9000 (136 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (129 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Saab 9000 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1988 Saab 9000 (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1988 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Saab 9000 | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Saab | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 9000 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1712 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 50 L |
